Where to find it
Link-Belt excavators typically have two numbers. The Link-Belt serial number is stamped into the frame under the cab, on the boom-cylinder side, below where the Link-Belt serial plate is (or was) attached. The Sumitomo number is stamped on the edge of the front bottom plate of the house, between the boom cylinders. If the data plate is damaged or missing, the number is usually also stamped directly into the frame near the same spot, so confirm the plate matches the stamped number.
Finding the year and exact model
Rather than decode the year from the serial yourself, the reliable route is a Link-Belt (LBX) dealer: they can look up a keysheet using the Sumitomo manufacturer number stamped on the base plate, and confirm the model, year and build details. Give them both numbers if the machine has them.
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Frequently asked
Where is the serial number on a Link-Belt excavator?
The Link-Belt serial is stamped into the frame under the cab on the boom-cylinder side, below where the serial plate attaches. The Sumitomo number is stamped on the front bottom plate of the house, between the boom cylinders.
Why does a Link-Belt have two serial numbers?
Link-Belt excavators are built on Sumitomo platforms, so they carry both a Link-Belt serial and the underlying Sumitomo number. A dealer uses the Sumitomo number to pull the machine keysheet.
How do I confirm the year of a Link-Belt excavator?
Give the serial (and the Sumitomo number if present) to a Link-Belt or LBX dealer, who can look up the keysheet and confirm the model, year and build details.